Hi everyone,

It is that time of the year again! The 99 Problems team is putting our love for football to the ultimate test by entering another Tackle Football Marathon. This unique fundraising event sees over 1,000 players across the country compete in grueling, regional 12-hour tournaments.

Our squad this year is a classic mix: a few self-proclaimed geriatrics (me included), plus some energetic youngsters roped in to do the actual running!

On a personal note, this is a huge one for me. It’s my 10th Football Marathon! Reaching this milestone makes me officially a Tackle Africa veteran, and it has made me reflect deeply on the incredible generosity everyone has shown over the last decade. I completely understand that donating year after year can lead to "sponsor fatigue." If you feel like you have already done your bit, please just take this message as a massive thank you for your past support. There is absolutely no expectation or pressure this time aroun. Your past kindness is already deeply appreciated.

However, Tackle remains incredibly close to my heart. Having travelled to Africa numerous times to volunteer on similar projects, I have seen first-hand the life-changing impact this work has on local communities. Tackle uses the universal language and popularity of football to deliver crucial HIV and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) information and services directly to young people on football pitches across Sub-Saharan Africa. It is a brilliant, highly effective concept that genuinely saves lives.

If you do have a few spare pounds to support the cause once again, I would be incredibly grateful for your donation. Every single pound helps us power through the 12-hour grind!

Thank you all so much for the years of support and generosity you’ve given to this “veteran” 😢

Best regards, David